Looking for free things to do in Mayo? The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life in Castlebar is a brilliant day out for young and old alike. Set in the spacious, modern galleries and Green Flag award-winning gardens of a historic country house, there’s plenty here to keep little minds active and engaged — and best of all, admission is free.
This extensive museum explores traditional ways of life in Ireland, and there’s far more to discover here than a quick walk through the galleries. Here are 10 unusual and awesome activities to enjoy on your visit, all free of charge.
#1. Step Back in Time
Explore Ireland’s National Folklife Collection to see how people lived in rural Ireland over 100 years ago. Learn about age-old crafts, see the blacksmith’s forge, old farm equipment and what a typical Irish home would have looked like in the 19th century. A fun and engaging mix of objects, interactive displays, images and films bring the Collection to life.
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#2. Complete Activity Sheets and Trails
There’s a range of free activity sheets and museum trails available from reception. One trail challenges children (and grown-ups!) to find Paedar the Pygmy Shrew, who is hiding at various locations around the galleries. It’s a great way for children to explore the extensive displays and learn about Ireland’s smallest mammal along the way. Pick up activity sheets, clipboards and pencils at the Family Station or from museum reception.
#3. Play Games from Yesteryear
Borrow a Games Box from museum reception to see how children played in times gone by. Try your hand at traditional games such as Queenie-I-O, Five Slates and Donkey — great fun, and free too.
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#4. Discover a New Old You!
What would you have worn in the 1800s? Find out at the children’s dress-up station, complete with hats and outfits from times gone by. Don’t forget to snap a few photos to show your friends when you get home!
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#5. Get Up Close to History
Get hands-on with history at the Discovery Station. Handle a selection of objects and see if you can work out how our ancestors used them. Keep an eye out too for the green ‘Please Touch’ signs dotted around some displays in the galleries.
#6. Become a Woodland Explorer
Head outdoors and go exploring in the woods. Can you identify the different tree species? See if you can spot the oldest tree in Turlough Park.
#7. Get on Your Bike!
Combine a visit to the museum with a Greenway day out for the whole family. The Museum Greenway links Lough Lannagh in Castlebar with the grounds of Turlough Park and is classed as easy to moderate. Bicycle parking is available at the museum, and bike hire can be found in Castlebar.
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#8. Visit the Willow House
Visit Willow House in the woods — an impressive beehive-shaped structure woven from natural materials using age-old techniques. Keep an eye out too for the ‘bug hotel’ next door.
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#9. Go Wild in the Adventure Playground
The natural woodland playground is beautifully located and a great spot for kids to burn off some energy. Have fun on the swings, slide, playhouses, monkey bars and natural stone climbing steps.
#10. Enjoy Sweet Treats
Round off your visit with something sweet at Brambles café in the courtyard. The café serves lunches, hot and cold snacks, a range of homemade desserts and speciality teas and coffees — a lovely way to end your day out.
We hope this has inspired you to visit the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life. Check the museum’s official website before you travel for current opening hours and any visitor updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is entry to NMI Country Life free?
Yes, admission to the museum and its grounds is free, along with parking on site.
Is NMI Country Life suitable for young children?
Yes. Between the interactive Discovery Station, dress-up corner, games boxes and outdoor playground, there’s plenty to keep younger children engaged alongside the museum’s galleries.
Is there anywhere to eat at the museum?
Yes, Brambles café in the courtyard serves lunches, snacks, homemade desserts and hot and cold drinks.
Can you cycle to the museum?
Yes — the Museum Greenway links Lough Lannagh in Castlebar with the grounds at Turlough Park and is a lovely way to combine a cycle with your museum visit.
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- 20 Great Childhood Games
Want More Free Days Out?
Save this one for your next rainy or sunny day trip, and browse our full collection of things to do around Ireland for more free and low-cost family days out.
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